In loving memory of those who are no longer with us, but forever woven into the fabric of our lives.

My best friend recently reached out and asked if I could make some upcycled heart ornaments for her Christmas tree. The shirts belonged to her dad, who sadly passed away in 2023. It’s been a heavy few years without him, and the holidays have a way of making that loss feel even closer. 

She is my number one supporter, and I felt incredibly honored that she trusted me with something so personal. Her family has been part of my life for over 30 years, truly a second family. Being able to create something that helps keep her dad’s memory present during the holidays meant more to me than I can put into words.

Clothing holds so much of a person within it, their warmth, their presence, their everyday life. Turning those pieces into handmade ornaments felt like a small but meaningful way to keep him close.

You may be reading this blog post after seeing my video on social media. I’m often asked if I sell my projects or take commissions, and the answer is no. Not because I don’t care but because I believe these keepsakes are most powerful when they’re made by your own hands. My hope is that my videos and tutorials inspire you to reuse what you already have and create something meaningful in the process.

I also want to acknowledge that this project may feel emotionally difficult. If you find yourself not wanting or able to complete it, consider asking a family member or close friend for help. It can make the hearts even more meaningful when they’re created by someone who knew and loved the person.

Below, I’ll show you exactly how I made these heart ornaments. And if sewing isn’t your thing, don’t worry – I’ve included an easy, no-sew option too.

Sewing Option:

• Shirts from a loved one

• Chalk

• Paper (for a template)

• Scissors

• Twine

• Stuffing

• Needle and thread (or a sewing machine)

Non-Sewing Option:

• Fabric glue

• Clothespins

• Clear ornaments

If you’re looking for the easiest approach, cut small pieces of the shirt and place them inside a clear ornament. Many craft stores carry these type of oraments during the holiday season.  I used leftover scraps I couldn’t bear to throw away. It’s simple and a beautiful way to display a loved one’s clothing, especially if the fabric is worn or damaged.

1. Create a heart template by folding a piece of paper in half and cutting out a symmetrical heart (mine was about 3 inches). If you’re having trouble drawing your own hearts, try tracing a heart shaped cookie cutter or search online for a heart shape to trace through your screen (or print off.)

2. Place the template on the shirt, making sure the front and back layers are touching. Trace the shape with chalk.

3. Cut out the heart, you’ll have two pieces of fabric.

4. Place the hearts back to back and apply fabric glue along half of the edge.

5. Cut a 3-inch piece of twine, fold it in half, and place it at the top of the heart to create a hanging loop. Make sure the ends of the twine sit inside the heart.

6. Gently fill the heart with stuffing.

7. Finish applying fabric glue around the remaining edge to seal it closed. If there is any leftover chalk lines, a damp cloth will easier wash it off.

Tip: Fabric glue takes time to dry. Apply gentle pressure along the edges for a few hours and be sure to apply ample glue to the string to bear the weight. Clothespins work beautifully to help hold everything in place.

1. Fold a piece of paper in half and cut out a heart template (about 3 inches).

2. Place the template on the shirt with both layers together and trace with chalk.

3. Cut out the heart to create two fabric pieces.

4. Place the hearts back to back and sew around half of the edge, either by hand or with a sewing machine.

5. Fold a 3-inch piece of twine in half and place it at the top of the heart between the layers. Make sure the twine sits below the stitch line to fully secure it.

6. While keeping the presser foot still down, add the stuffing.

7. Finish sewing around the heart to close it completely. Most of the chalk will come off under the presser foot, but if any is leftover a damp cloth will easier remove it.

Tip: With time, the edges will softly fray, a detail I love because it gives the piece a well-loved, antique feel. If you prefer a cleaner finish, simply tuck the edges in as you work. You can also get creative by using the pocket, button or tags for a unique way to repurpose all the shirts parts.

That’s it 🤍

The holidays can be incredibly hard, especially when someone we love is missing. My hope is that this small project brings a bit of comfort, something tangible to hold onto, hang up, and remember. These hearts make deeply meaningful gifts for family and friends, and each one tells a story.

If you’re navigating grief this season, please know you’re not alone. Sending you a virtual hug and a gentle reminder to be kind to yourself.

This project was made in loving memory of Bruce.